A sea of pink, so dense you cannot see the sky. Japanese cherry blossom is a mesmerizing sight. The significance of cherry trees goes back centuries in Japanese culture. Known as ‘sakura’ the pink flowers symbolize how short and precious life is.

Travel with us on our Majestic Japan tour and have the privileged opportunity to meet with a specialized Cherry Blossom Doctor. In the beautiful setting of Hirosaki Castle in Amouri, you will learn how they take meticulous care to nurture the cherry blossom trees. This ensures that each and every one is healthy and thriving during the blossom season each April.

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The symbolism of Japanese cherry blossom

As well as their beauty, the cherry blossoms hold great symbolism for the Japanese. Said to be like the clouds, as they bloom all together and sit at the top of the trees. Then, like clouds, they suddenly disappear. This has come to symbolize ‘ephemerality or transient nature of life.’ Reflecting a longstanding of Buddhist concept in Japanese culture known as ‘mono no aware,’ or roughly, ‘the pathos of things,’ which recognizes both the beauty and mortality inherent in life.

For travel inspiration: Japan destination guide

Japan’s cherry blossom obsession

If you travel to Japan in the springtime, you will be swept up in the changes to the atmosphere and landscapes. Promises of new life and new beginnings mix with soft scents as plants and flowers burst into life. Japanese cherry blossoms take pride of place, a source of conversation as people become entranced by the trees. It is not uncommon to see people taking their time to photograph the blooms from every angle.

Shops and stores fill with pink products in celebration, and the Starbucks Sakura tree-themed drinks are in everyone’s clutches. Cherry blossom festivals are held in many parks and castle grounds across Japan. And the Japanese cherry blossom flower is seen on everything from wall paper to clothing.

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

The cherry blossom doctors

Tree doctors, or arborists, are the specialists that keep the Japanese cherry trees healthy all year round. They’re able to diagnose the condition of a tree just by looking at the color of its leaves and branches or listening to the sound of the trunk. Throughout the year they take care of these precious trees, both to guarantee the most magnificent blossoms, and the ensure they can survive for further decades.

In Hirosaki, where Luxury Gold guests will meet a cherry blossom doctor, these guardians are known as the known as the sakuramori. Sakuramori literally means “people who look after sakura” in Japanese.

Most of Hirosaki Park’s cherry blossoms are the variety called ‘Somei Yoshino’ which live around 60 years. But Hirosaki also has trees that are over 100 years old and still blossom profusely. The oldest cherry blossom tree in Japan is over 2,000 years old. Called ‘Jindai Zakura’, it grows within the grounds of the Jissoji Temple in Yamanashi, with a root circumference of 13.5m.

Read more: Sakura: The story of an obsession

Preserving the green spaces in Japan

Whilst the volume of green areas in Japan’s cities has generally increased over the last two decades, in many places it is becoming more difficult for trees to grow healthy and strong. This is because of new diseases and pests. Urban forests are important to clean air, reduce flood risks and even lower stress, which is why the Japanese cherry blossom doctors are vital for keeping Japan’s cities green.

The tree doctors are highly skilled in trimming any branches that appear sick or are preventing other branches from growing. They also keep an eye out for mushrooms as these rot the branch from the inside, meaning the branch is more likely to fall.

Hirosaki Style Management

Hirosaki style management was first introduced in the 1960’s. The way sakuramoris take care of sakura trees originated from the highly successful pruning methods used by Hirosaki’s apple farmers. Local farmers grew apples on the lower part of the trees to facilitate harvest, and this technique has proved useful for managing sakura today.

Sakuramoris first thin the branches to allow new branches to grow. After pruning and fertilization, sakura flowers can then blossom from the lower part of the tree. This is why, compared to the average Somei Yoshino, each bud in Hirosaki Park can develop one to two more flowers. When cherry blossom season arrives, after a winter of loving care the flowers are simply spectacular.

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Hirosaki Castle and park

The most stunning setting, Hirosaki city is an old castle town in Aomori, Japan. Beautiful any time of year, its vast park is home to Hirosaki Castle. Widely considered as one of Japan’s most beautiful castles, Hirosaki Castle is the symbol of the park. It is one of the few Japanese castles that has been preserved in its original structure.

Constructed in the Hirayama style, the main tower was built on top of a hill for easier defense and surrounded by defensive walls, moats, and yagura towers. The park surrounding the castle is filled with cherry trees, and when spring arrives in late April the cherry blossom festival always draws huge crowds. The park has about 50 varieties of Sakura tree, with over 2600 trees overall.

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To have the opportunity to meet a Japanese cherry blossom doctor for yourself, and to explore the best of this enchanting country, take a look at our Majestic Japan luxury guided tour. Discover and elegant, enchanting and ever-changing Japan, with exceptional hotels and exquisite dining bookending each unforgettable day.

With a spectacular coastline stretching over 2,000 miles, Vietnam’s maritime communities have been profoundly shaped by the sea. From the fishing villages and floating markets to the iconic bamboo basket boats and sampan boats, Vietnam’s coastal culture is extraordinary. We dive into the waterways of Vietnam to discover the unique traditions and communities that thrive here, from the floating villages of Ha Long Bay to the drifting markets of the Mekong. We also share how you can get a deeper insight with these exclusive cruise experiences on our Cambodia & Vietnam in Style luxury tour. 

1. Discover the water wonderland of Ha Long Bay

Set in northeastern Vietnam, UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay is one of the country’s most famous natural wonders. Its name translates to “Descending Dragon Bay,” as local legend says dragons were sent by the gods to protect Vietnam, creating the bay and its islands. 

The bay encompasses around 600 square miles and has more than 1,600 limestone islands rising out of the emerald waters. Formed over millions of years, the karst landscape has a remarkable concentration of grottoes, caves, limestone peaks, rainforests, and a rich biodiversity. Ha Long Bay is also famous for its unique floating villages, where residents live and work on the water.

Private luxury junk boat cruise

Sailing Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic cruise experiences, but you’ll get to do it in style. We’ll board a private luxury junk boat for a special overnight cruise on the bay. The boat is traditionally designed, with all the modern luxuries found within. In the evening, you can relax on deck and watch the glorious sunset, or enjoy a traditional Vietnamese cooking demonstration, and indulge in the creations for dinner. In the morning, you’ll start your day with a Tai Chi class before enjoying brunch as you cruise through the limestone karsts. 

Read more: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

Sea caves and floating villages

You’ll also make a trip to explore Tien Ong Cave. It’s famed for its massive stalactites and stalagmites, including one known as “the fairy godfather”. Afterwards, we’ll sail to Cua Van floating village, where generations of fishermen and their families have lived for hundreds of years. The villages are made up of clusters of floating houses, moored to the seafloor, creating a community that lives and works on the water.

Life in these villages is directly tied to the sea. Fishing and acquaculture are the main sources of income and motor and row boats are the main modes of transport. Children even learn to swim before they walk. The populations of these floating villages have dwindled over time due to modernisation and government relocation programs. However, those who remain preserve their traditional way of life and remarkably resourceful maritime culture. 

Read more: Reconnect with the great outdoors at these luxurious back-to-nature retreats

2. Explore the waterways of the Mekong River

Nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam’, the Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. Spanning an area of around 16,000 square miles and passing through six countries, the Mekong River is one of the biggest and most fertile deltas in the world. The Mekong supports thousands of animal species, while millions of people depend on it for agriculture and their livelihoods. Locals have built their lives on and around the water and the intricate web of canals is used for everything from transport to trade and fishing.

The Mekong is famous for its unique floating market culture, where people can buy produce from vendors on boats. Houses are built on stilts to integrate with the changing water levels and you’ll see temples and pagodas perched on the delta. While automated mass agriculture threatens farming and fishing traditions, and climate change disrupts the natural cycles of the Mekong, the locals continue to uphold their harmonious relationship with the delta.

Private cruise through the Mekong

You’ll get an insight into the Mekong culture on one of our exclusive cruise experiences. We’ll board a private vessel for a cruise down the rivers and canals of the delta. You’ll first learn about coconut production, one of the major industries for people living along the river. Then have some fun on land with a ride on a tri-motorcycle through the limestone mountains and glistening rice paddies. You’ll arrive at a rice noodle factory and discover how this beloved Vietnamese food is made.

You’ll then meet Mr Sau Tuong, a former soldier, and his wife at their home. You’ll learn how the couple makes rice paper using traditional techniques. Mr Sau Tuong spent years fighting the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s and now lives a more peaceful life preserving ancient customs.

Later, enjoy lunch at the charming Mango Home, a thatched floating restaurant. Savor delta delicacies such as grilled fish, giant prawns and noodle soup as you gaze out over the lush waterways.

Read more: Why a Luxury River Cruise is the Best Way to Cruise

3. Bamboo basket boat ride to Thanh Dong Village

As part of our journey, we’ll visit Cam Thanh Village and see the thick coconut jungles, once a shelter for residents and soldiers during the Vietnam War. Today, the village is a vital supplier of rice, seafood and vegetables to the region. We’ll explore more of this region with one of our most unique cruise experiences – bamboo basket boat. 

Bamboo basket boats have played an integral role in Vietnam’s maritime culture for centuries. Their origins date back to the French colonial era. The French imposed heavy taxes on the ownership of boats, making it unaffordable for many local fishermen. In response, the Vietnamese created these unique, lightweight, sturdy, and affordable boats. They could argue they were ‘baskets’ rather than ‘boats’, therefore skirting the tax laws. The boats became a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity and are still used today for fishing and ferrying people and goods.

Ride a bamboo basket boat to a riverside restaurant

You’ll witness this enduring tradition up close when you ride in a bamboo basket boat to Thanh Dong village. Here you’ll meet villagers and learn how they cultivate produce using sustainable and traditional methods. You’ll continue your peaceful voyage on the bamboo basket boat to a riverside restaurant. It’s an idyllic location right on top of the water, nestled in the coconut forest, overlooking the glimmering rice fields. Here you’ll take part in a hands-on cooking class with a professional local chef. You’ll learn how to make some delicious Vietnamese food and enjoy your creations for lunch. 

Discover these exclusive cruise experiences and more extraordinary adventures with our Cambodia & Vietnam in Style luxury tour. 

Japan is gorgeous all year round, but it truly sings in springtime. This is when the iconic cherry blossoms, or “sakura”, blanket the landscape in dreamy hues of pink and white, while ornate gardens bloom and spring cuisine flourishes. It’s also a wonderful time to experience Japan’s unique cultural practices, with vibrant festivals celebrating revival and renewal. We delve deeper into all the reasons why spring is the best time to visit Japan and what you can experience on a spring trip to Japan.

Experience it: Majestic Japan

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The Sakura season

Seeing the mesmerising cherry blossom season in Japan is one of the ultimate bucket list experiences. Usually occurring from late March to early May, the cherry blossoms bloom in waves, starting from the southern region and progressing northwards. 

Cities, parks, and temples are blanketed with stunning soft pink and white blossoms and you can’t help but take part in the “hanami” (flower viewing) tradition of enjoying the beauty of the blossoming trees. You’ll even see nighttime illuminations, known as “yozakura”, offering a unique and enchanting perspective on these gorgeous blossoms.

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When you visit Japan with Luxury Gold, you’ll meet a specialised cherry blossom tree doctor at Hirosaki Castle. These doctors ensure that each tree, from saplings to mature trees, is healthy and thriving. You’ll learn all about their meticulous care for these trees while admiring the blossoms around the castle.

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Ideal weather and natural landscapes

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Springtime in Japan brings mild temperatures and blue skies, making it ideal for exploring the country’s beautiful natural landscapes, from the mountains and national parks to zen gardens. 

When you visit Japan on our Majestic Japan luxury tour, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the glorious spring weather and nature. We’ll board the bullet train to Mishima for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and then admire its reflection in Lake Kawaguchi. You can also choose to get a more spectacular view of Mount Fuji and the lake by riding the thrilling Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car. Or explore the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum where you can wander through the peaceful gardens and marvel at the architecture and kimono collection. 

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If you want to get closer to the water, we’ll take a private cruise on Matsushima Bay in Sendai. Soak up the views of the pine-clad islets of the bay, and hear about the countless haikus poets have written after being inspired by the bay, said to be a place of love and wonder.

You’ll also have the chance to delve deeper into Japan’s nature at Oirase Gorge, a wonderland of waterfalls, lush forest, and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a walk along the bubbling river in Hachimantai National Park then sink into a soothing Onsen bath surrounded by the forest – the perfect springtime activity. You’ll then have the rare opportunity to meet sake brewmaster Takumi Sato for a private VIP tasting and brewery tour. Learn about the essence of sake and shared some of this sacred drink in the beautiful surroundings of Oirase. 

Read more: Masters at work: These artisanal jobs hark back to an older time

Unique festivals and cultural customs

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Spring holds deep cultural significance in Japan as it represents renewal and new beginnings. The season is teeming with vibrant festivals, such as the remarkable Takayama Festival in the Gifu prefecture. You’ll see colourful parades with intricately adorned floats, lively puppet shows, and traditional music and dance performances.

When you visit Japan with Luxury Gold, you’ll see the Sensō-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. If you’re visiting in mid-April, you may be lucky enough to witness Shirasagi-no Mai, or the Dance of the White Heron, a large spring festival that takes place at the temple. The festival dates back to the 8th century during the Heian period and involves a procession of dancers dressed in elaborate white heron costumes and makeup, accompanied by a group of guardians and floats with musicians. It’s an incredible performance and unmissable if you visit Japan in April. 

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Spring is also one of the best times to get an insight into Japan’s sacred tea culture. Spring is the time of shincha (new tea) and the tea fields are green and lush. We’ll head to Sendai on Honshu island, where you’ll witness a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house. You’ll also learn the ancient art of making the perfect matcha green tea, and enjoy a warming brew of fresh tea. 

Read more: The timeless elegance of Japan: admire geisha in Kyoto

Fresh spring cuisine

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Springtime isn’t just about the blooms and views – it also brings an array of culinary delights. You can find Sakura-flavored treats such as mochi, and enjoy the fresh flavors of “takenoko” (bamboo shoots) and “sansai” (mountain vegetables) in your dishes. In Sendai, we’ll meet the owner of a local inn for a fresh seafood lunch, while in Hiroshima, you can savor the local delicacy of Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish. 

In Tokyo, take part in a private sushi-making class to learn this 2,000-year-old art from a master sushi chef and indulge in a mouthwatering lunch afterwards. And discover Osaka’s Donburi Street on a stroll with a Local Expert. Taste the local specialities such as Takoyaki (octopus wrapped in batter) and find out what this city is renowned as the kitchen of Japan. 

Read more: A guide to Japan’s finest Kobe beef

Discover all this and more, such as a private Geisha performance and a stay at the remarkable Hotel Granvia Kyoto, on our Majestic Japan luxury tour.